(a) the steps taken by the Government to implement the Gazette notification dated May 01, 1989 to develop Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) as Scientific and Technical Department;
(b) the reasons for inordinate delay in implementing the same;
(c) the time by which it is likely to be accorded the status of an autonomous scientific and technical organization; and
(d) the benefits likely to accrue to ASI through this status?
MINISTER FOR TOURISM AND CULTURE
( SMT. AMBIKA SONI )
(a) to (c) Department of Science & Technology vide their O.M.No.DST/SAC-PM I(56)/88, dated 1.5.1989 approved the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) as a Science and Technological Institution. Subsequently, Department of Culture vide Notification No.36016/2/89-Estt., dated 27th October, 1989 recognized ASI as Science and Technological Institution.
(d) The implications of recognition of Archaeological Survey of India as a Science & Technological Institute are:
(i) Scientists and Engineers involved in scientific activities and services are eligible for
benefits under Flexible Complementing Scheme.
(ii) Secretary, Department of Culture can chair E.F.C. Meetings for approving projects costing
upto Rs.200 Crores as against Rs.100 Crores in case of normal Departments.
(iii) As per Government of India decision, under Rule 13 of Delegation of Financial Powers
Rules read with para 4(a) thereof, S&T institutions are exempted from the normal purchase rules
with the condition that S&T institutions should evolve alternate procedure to exercise of these
powers.